Classic gravy is the unsung hero of just about every holiday meal. Whether it’s completing your Thanksgiving turkey or bringing weeknight mashed potatoes to life, having a great gravy recipe up your sleeve is a game-changer. For me, gravy has that nostalgia factor—it takes me back to family dinners, sitting around the table as the rich, velvety gravy transformed even the simplest dishes into something special.
If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with lumps or wondering what makes gravy taste truly restaurant-worthy, this recipe’s for you! With a few simple tricks, you’ll be ready to pour out liquid gold onto your favorite mains in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s simple and quick: Anyone can make this stovetop gravy with minimal ingredients in under 15 minutes.
- Customizable: You can make it with turkey drippings, chicken stock, or even beef broth, depending on your main dish.
- No lumps, ever: We’ve got a foolproof method that ensures you never have to work your gravy through a sieve again.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Pan Drippings or Butter: If you’re making a turkey or roast, scoop up those delicious drippings. If you’re in a pinch, butter works beautifully.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is what thickens the gravy and gives it that comforting creamy texture.
- Broth or Stock: Whether it’s chicken, beef, or turkey stock, this liquid forms the backbone of your gravy’s flavor. That’s why good-quality stock goes a long way.
- Seasonings: Don’t forget your salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a rich umami boost.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather your drippings or melt the butter: Begin by gathering the pan drippings from your roast or turkey. If you’re using butter, simply melt ¼ cup of it in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Make a roux: Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to the butter or drippings. Whisk continuously for about 2–3 minutes to create a smooth paste. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to turn a golden color, but don’t let it burn!
- Slowly add broth: Gradually pour in 2 cups of warm broth (turkey/chicken/beef) while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5–7 minutes.
- Season: Once thickened, season with salt, pepper to taste, and add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth (about 1 teaspoon).
- Simmer and serve: Lower the heat and let the gravy simmer for another minute or two for the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thinner gravy, add a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Gravy complete: Your silky gravy is ready! Pour it into your favorite gravy boat and serve hot over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your holiday centerpiece.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Tip #1: If you want an extra smooth gravy, strain the drippings before adding them to avoid any bits of meat or fat.
- Tip #2: For a richer flavor, try using homemade stock—it really adds depth to the recipe.
- Tip #3: If your gravy ends up too thick, simply whisk in more broth a little at a time. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens up.
- Avoid: Don’t stop whisking while making the roux! That’s how lumps form.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Make it vegetarian: Swap out meat-based broth for vegetable stock and butter, and you’ll have an equally delicious gravy perfect for plant-based dishes.
- Herb it up: Freshly chopped thyme or rosemary can take this classic gravy to the next level—stir in a bit just before serving for herbal notes.
- Serve with: This gravy is a match made in heaven with mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or even steamed veggies if you’re going lighter.
- Wine pairing: A glass of hearty red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, or even a crisp white, depending on what’s on the rest of your table, complements the richness of this gravy.
FAQs
Q: Can I make gravy in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make this gravy a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a little more broth while reheating.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it over low heat on the stove, whisking until smooth.
Q: Can gravy be frozen?
A: Yes! Let the gravy cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Recipe Card
Classic Gravy
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup drippings or butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups broth (chicken, beef, or turkey)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, warm drippings or melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, whisking constantly until golden, about 2-3 minutes.
- While whisking, slowly pour in broth and continue whisking until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Serve warm.
I can’t wait for you to give this classic gravy recipe a try—whether it’s gracing your holiday table or just elevating a weeknight meal! It’s so versatile and guaranteed to wow. Leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out, or tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid with your gravy-topped creations. Want even more side dish inspo? Try my Creamy Mashed Potatoes or famous Roasted Vegetables next!
